Thiago Silva Arrested in Florida

Disturbing news broke late last night as UFC light heavyweight Thiago Silva was arrested at his Florida home following a standoff with police. The UFC fighter was taken into custody after surrendering to a local SWAT team around 11PM ET. Local news stations were first to report the story.

The incident apparently began shortly before 8PM Thursday when Silva confronted members at the Pablo Popovitch Mixed Martial Arts Academy while brandishing a firearm. The fighter then retreated to his home without harming anyone at the gym and a SWAT team was called in shortly thereafter.

The UFC released a statement saying they will be holding off on making any substantial comment until they have more information. Silva had been scheduled to meet Ovince St. Preux at UFC 171 next month in Dallas, Texas prior to Thursday’s incident. Silva was currently riding a two fight win streak in the Octagon and appeared to be preparing to make a run before his actions on Thursday.

While the details are still murky, Silva could be facing a rather severe penalty in Florida, that could possibly end his MMA career, depending on what he is charged with.